Rapper Maandy Criticizes Celebrity Trend of Having Babies for Content

Amanda Mitchelle Wambui, popularly known as Maandy Kabaya, started her career as a DJ before transitioning to full-time music in 2016 and hasn’t looked back since. She is known for her outspoken nature.

Maandy firmly believes in personal privacy, especially regarding her phone. She insists that even in extreme situations, such as a medical emergency, her phone should remain untouched. To her, going through a partner’s phone signifies a lack of trust, making the relationship feel restrictive and invasive.

Maandy: Men Find Me Intimidating, But I’m Actually a Soft Girl

On relationships, Maandy claims she is not single by choice but because men are intimidated by her. Despite this, she describes herself as a sweetheart—unless provoked.

Discussing fellow artist Willy Paul, Maandy acknowledges his undeniable talent and longevity in the industry. She admires his ability to remain relevant in Kenya’s competitive music scene, often ranking among the top trending artists on YouTube. However, she believes he allows emotions to cloud his judgment, causing people to perceive him as a joke. According to her, he needs to recognize his influence and avoid unnecessary controversies.

Maandy Defends Arbantone Against Originality Criticisms

Regarding Size 8 and DJ Mo’s marriage, Maandy is critical of their publicized relationship. She states that if she were in Size 8’s position, she wouldn’t have accepted DJ Mo’s re-proposal after multiple public cheating scandals. She attributes their struggles partly to their open display of Christianity on social media, which she believes places undue pressure on the woman. Recalling past allegations, including infidelity and domestic violence, she expresses skepticism about celebrity relationships, suggesting that some intentionally stage breakups for attention.

She also calls out the growing trend of celebrity couples having children for content, questioning why they feel the need to repeatedly share details of each birth.

On marriage, Maandy prioritizes financial security over love. She openly states that she wouldn’t mind being a fourth wife as long as financial stability is guaranteed, appreciating the freedom such an arrangement could offer.

Hitting the Right Note: Celebrating Kenya’s Biggest Tunes of 2023

Keeping tabs on the ever-expanding Kenyan music scene can feel like chasing butterflies. New music erupts onto streaming platforms daily, but some melodies burrow deep into our hearts, becoming the soundtrack of our year.

2023 was no exception. Kenyan artists soared, weaving genres and collaborations into unforgettable tunes. Here’s a glimpse at some of the year’s biggest hits:

Viral Sensations:

  • Mwaki by Zerb ft Sofiya Nzau: This Kikuyu ballad about a daughter’s fear resonated with listeners, exploding on TikTok and garnering over 5 million YouTube views.

  • Miss Behaviour – Boutross ft Savara & Fathermoh: Sauti Sol’s Savara joined forces with Boutross and Fathermoh for this infectious party anthem, exceeding 1.6 million views.

  • TikToker – Soundkraft ft Gody Tennor, Tips Gee & Kappy: The Arbantone sound took off with this playful track, racking up over 3.3 million views and counting.

Genre Gems:

  • Lifestyle – Bien ft Scar Mkadinali: From Bien’s debut solo album, this soulful groove became a streaming favorite.

  • Ma Cherie – Bien: Another hit from “Alusa Why Are You Topless,” “Ma Cherie” sparked TikTok dance challenges with its retro flair.

  • Too Easy – Bien ft DJ Edu: Just as the name suggests, this bouncy tune effortlessly grabs your attention, with over 5 million views already.

Collaboration Champions:

  • Under the Influence – Femi One ft. Nyashinski: Kaka Empire united for this electrifying track, showcasing their lyrical prowess and earning over 830K views.

  • Bubbly Bubbly – Maandy Kabaya: Maandy’s smooth rhymes and catchy flow on this Arbantone banger brought in over 2.1 million views.

  • Kesho – Bridget Blue: This contemplative song about life’s seasons, released in October, resonated deeply with listeners.

And Beyond:

The list goes on. Odi Wa Murang’a’s “Kwa Bar” teamed up with Fathermoh and Harrycraze for a hilarious ode to the “mean Maths teacher,” while Bensoul and Bien’s “Navutishwa” explored the struggles of Nairobi dating. Darassa and Bien’s “No Body” cemented the Kenyan-Tanzanian music bond, and Nyashinski’s heartfelt “Perfect Design” featured his wife as the muse.

This is just a snapshot of the vibrant Kenyan music scene in 2023. These tunes, and many more, captured our hearts, made us move, and reflected the country’s soul. So, put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and celebrate the music that made our year sing.